Edmonton Oilers Trial Trent Frederic on Top Line Amid Hyman Injury

The Edmonton Oilers are in the midst of their preseason, focusing on finalizing their roster decisions before the regular season starts. Star players Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are once again paired on the top line, with Trent Frederic receiving a significant opportunity to play alongside them due to Zach Hyman's injury. Frederic, who recently signed an eight-year, $30.8 million contract extension, is being tested as a potential top-six forward, with the coaching staff hoping his physicality and playmaking can complement the duo. Despite some early struggles, including a minus-3 rating in a recent game, the Oilers are optimistic about Frederic's potential to grow into a productive role on the top line. Coach Kris Knoblauch explained that pairing McDavid and Draisaitl together allows the other lines to play more to their strengths and keeps the team more engaged overall. With several young and fringe players competing for spots, the remaining preseason games are crucial for the Oilers' roster shaping.